Written By : Tony Stone on 21/12/2025

Categories: Match Report

SIL Premier Division: Henley Athletic FC 0-1 Saxmundham Sports FC

 

It was great to see a crowd of 116, bulked by a strong Saxmundham contingent enjoying the pre-Christmas atmosphere at the Community Centre, who were entertained throughout by a scrappy but hard-fought game, dominated by goalkeeping performances.

 

There was a fairly even start to the game, until 25 minutes when Henley looked to have taken the lead as Webster drilled home, only to see a late flag rule it out for offside. On 30 minutes a good move from Sax created a fine chance, only for it to be blazed over, Spurling had to be on his toes after 36 minutes to tip over a long-range effort. From the subsequent corner once again Sax came close, a header striking the foot of the post. Just before the break a flowing Henley move saw a shot from Cates tipped round the post at full stretch by visiting keeper Copping. Leaving the scoreboard untroubled at the break.

 

Henley made changes and pushed hard in the 2nd half, piling the pressure onto Sax. Henley were awarded a penalty on 64 minutes when Dende was adjudged to have been brough down in the box, a harsh decision as Dende slipped and no contact, or indeed appeal, was made. A decision compounded with a 2nd yellow and subsequent red for the incorrectly accused Sax defender. But Copping was once again the Sax hero, throwing himself to the right to save Taylor’s well struck spot kick. Banya joined the action for his Henley debut off the bench, almost scoring with his just touch, but the ball going just wide,

 

Spurling was called into action again on 69 minutes, athletically rising to tip over after a good break from Sax, as Henley tried to press and utilise their man advantage, they were again grateful to Spurling as again they were caught on the break on 75 minutes. Copping again came to Sax’s rescue on 79 minutes, Getting a strong hand on another effort from Taylor. After 87 minutes Taylor was denied again, a superbly hit volley from the edge of the area, simply magnificently saved by Copping. Straight up the other end Sax caught Henley on the break again, and this time made it count, Blowers     finishing from close range to make it 0-1 and seal the win for Sax.

 

A good win for the visitors, who despite going down to 10 men unjustly, kept believing and were ultimately rewarded. Disappointing for Henley who deserved something out of this game, but all credit to a MOTM performance for the young visiting keeper Copping, who was the difference between the two sides today. The Henley MOTM vote went to White, who had a strong game, Taylor and Spurling also impressing, as did the debut from new signing Banya.

 

Merry Christmas to all who endure my weekly waffle.

 

 

#UppaHens

 

The Hat